Augmented Intelligence

By Mark Howard

Are we still talking about robots as a threat to
jobs? According to Google Trends data, automation remains a controversial
topic. “Are robots taking over jobs” is peaking at a similar search volume as
ten years ago — but a new concept is changing the role of automation in the
workplace. Here, Mark Howard, US country manager at industrial parts supplier,
EU Automation, explains how augmented intelligence could assist with human and
machine collaboration.

Augmented intelligence is one of the few technologies named on
the Gartner Hype Cycle for Emerging Technologies,2019 that
are predicted to reach expectations, over the next two-to-five years. In
contrast to artificial intelligence (AI), augmented intelligence emphasises
collaborations between AI and human workers. It’s designed to enhance human
skills and allow them to work faster and more efficiently, rather than replace
them.

Admittedly, augmented intelligence doesn’t resemble the “mechanical
muscle” that many workers typically associate as being a threat to jobs — like
powerful Selective Compliance Articulated Robot Arms
(SCARA), for instance. But, let’s be realistic, human workers will never
compete with the speed and accuracy of a SCARA robot when assigned to complete
a pick-and-place process. Nor can they match the power of a six-axis machine
for loading and unloading applications.

However, many workers today also feel threatened by machines that
can make decisions — often more efficiently than humans do.

AI is already being used to meet quality regulations and standards
in manufacturing. Coined as Quality 4.0, the concept involves the use of AI
algorithms to recognize emerging production faults that have the potential to
cause problems in product quality. Subtle abnormalities in machine behaviour,
deterioration of equipment or changes to raw materials can all be intelligently
identified. This allows AI to make automatic changes to production, if
necessary.

Once instance might be if an automated conveyor is left on standby
until it’s required for the transportation of a batch. The system can send an
automated command to turn on the machine at the exact moment it’s required.
Furthermore, working with an industrial parts supplier can
ensure that this connectivity is seamless. The supplier can provide a list of
parts manufacturers to choose from, and ensure easy integration with the AI
system in question.

That said, while advanced AI can fix some issues automatically,
the process is not always devoid of human intervention. Other issues, such as
emergency maintenance of a machine, will always require human involvement at
some stage. AI can provide the alert, but it can’t always do the work.

So, what’s the difference between AI and augmented intelligence?
Arguably, there is not much too it.

It could be argued that augmented intelligence is simply an
alternative label for the way AI is currently used in industry. AI is not
presently advanced enough to operate entirely without human workers’ help. Even
lights-out manufacturing facilities — automated factories that operate without
human workers on the floor — will require human interference at some stage during
the process; whether that’s for programming, maintenance or any decision making
that goes beyond data analysis.

As Google Trends data suggests, workers still fear the threat that
automation poses to jobs. To alleviate this apprehension, manufacturers should
adopt alternative approaches to scaremongering concepts like AI, such as
augmented intelligence. The technology may have been named as an emerging trend
in the Gartner Hype Cycle, but it could be argued that
manufacturers are already using this methodology to enhance their operations.
It’s still AI, but with a little human involvement.

We’re already aware of the benefits manufacturers can reap by
investing in automation. Focussing on human-centric terminology, like augmented
intelligence, will ensure that workers are not ostracized during their
employers’ inevitable transition to smart manufacturing.

More information on EU Automation’s and its wide range of
industrial parts can be found at www.euautomation.com/us.

About EU AutomationEU Automation stocks and sells new, used, refurbished and obsolete industrial automation spares. Its global network of preferred partner warehouses, and wholly owned distribution centers, enables it to offer a unique service within the automation industry, spanning the entire globe. It provides worldwide express delivery on all products meaning it can supply any part, to any destination, at very short notice.